A small bakery in Tallahassee, Florida, has experienced a surge in orders after actor Ryan Gosling praised its pop tarts during a late-night TV appearance. The Cake Shop, owned by Linda Richards, received thousands of requests following Gosling's endorsement on Late Night with Seth Meyers on March 18.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Gosling, promoting his film Project Hail Mary, noticed Donna Richards, a wardrobe dresser for Saturday Night Live, during the interview. He revealed she had been sneaking him pop tarts from her sister's bakery. Gosling then urged viewers to order the treats, calling them 'the most incredible pop tarts.'
The unexpected plug led to an overwhelming response, with the bakery selling over 100 pop tarts in a single day and receiving orders from across the country. Linda Richards described the situation as a 'total shock,' stating the phone 'rings off the hook.'
Deeper Dive & Context
The Cake Shop, which has operated for over 25 years, offers a variety of desserts, including cookies, cakes, and more than 20 cupcake flavors. Gosling specifically praised the bakery's 'Popped' Tarts, available in flavors like strawberry, blueberry, cinnamon, and peanut butter and jelly. He mentioned the treats fueled him during his time hosting SNL.
Linda Richards has asked customers for patience as the small business works to meet the increased demand. The bakery's sudden popularity highlights the power of celebrity endorsements for local businesses.